πράκτωρ (praktōr)
praktōr
bailiff
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun praktōr refers to a court officer or bailiff, specifically one tasked with executing judicial sentences. In classical Athens, the term described a collector who exacted payment, but in the New Testament it carries the weight of legal enforcement. It denotes an official whose duty was to ensure that court orders were carried out, often involving the infliction of punishment or the seizure of property.
This word appears only once in Scripture, in Luke 12:58, where Jesus uses it in a parable about settling disputes before going to court. The imagery highlights the serious consequences of ignoring legal obligations, as the praktōr would not hesitate to detain or punish the debtor. The term underscores the authority of the judicial system and the inevitability of accountability.
Its root connects to action and accomplishment, emphasizing the practical execution of justice rather than mere judgment. Translators typically render it as "bailiff" or "officer," capturing its role as an agent of enforcement. This single usage in Luke serves as a vivid illustration of the importance of resolving conflicts promptly.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word praktōr describes a court officer or bailiff responsible for enforcing legal judgments. In Luke 12:58, Jesus uses this figure to illustrate the serious consequences of unresolved conflict. The officer does not negotiate; he executes the order, which could mean imprisonment. This image reminds us that ignoring disputes often leads to unavoidable accountability.
Jesus urges His listeners to settle matters quickly while there is still time. The practical application for your life is clear: do not let anger or pride delay reconciliation. Addressing issues early prevents them from escalating into situations where you lose control of the outcome. Peace is found in prompt action, not in waiting for a verdict.
When conflicts arise, seek resolution with diligence. This approach protects your witness and brings relief to your heart. Trust that God provides the grace to make things right before they become burdensome legal or relational debts.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- officer,1×
- officer1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πράκτωρ1×
- πράκτορι,1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 12:58
For when you are going with your adversary before the magistrate, try diligently on the way to be released from him, lest perhaps he drag you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison.
The officer (praktōr) represents the inescapable enforcement of justice, showing that delaying reconciliation leads to forced submission and loss of freedom.